In our second episode of ‘Beyond the Bio’, Joshua Oh, shares about his decision to make a career switch from being a Naval Officer in the Republic of Singapore Navy to executive recruitment.
Navigating Change: From the Seas to HR
Joshua spent 6 years in the Republic of Singapore Navy, before starting a new career as a consultant within Kerry Consulting’s Human Resources Practice.
This initial career choice, while fulfilling, eventually led him to prioritise family and seek a profession that aligned more closely with his personal commitments, marking a pivotal moment in his professional trajectory.
Joshua’s naval experience wasn’t just confined to maritime duties; he also discovered a passion for human resources during a brief stint.
This passion for HR became the catalyst for his transition into recruitment, where he found his skills in crisis management and adaptability from naval service to be highly applicable.
Joshua quickly understood the crossover and transferability of skills between both roles, highlighting that “the ability to expect the unexpected, then react to emergencies – I thought that was highly applicable in recruitment”.
Impacting Careers & Lives
For Joshua, he believes that his role as a recruiter goes beyond filling positions; it involves profoundly impacting lives. “My job is to connect with people. When I place candidates, I help them to achieve their dream job or career”.
This impact extends beyond just the individual, providing his work with a deeper sense of purpose. “It doesn’t only affect them, but also affects their family and people around them – which is very meaningful, and it brings purpose to my job”.
Advise for Aspiring Recruiters
For those considering a career in recruitment, his insights offer valuable guidance. Highlighting the limitless opportunities for personal growth and the ability to impact lives positively, Joshua shares, “The sky’s the limit. As long as you put in the effort, you are able to reap the benefits”.
About the ‘Beyond the Bio’ Series
In ‘Beyond the Bio’, Kerry Consulting explores the journeys of our consultants who transitioned from various industries to executive recruitment. This series examines what it takes to excel as a talent acquisition professional, offering comprehensive insights into the diverse backgrounds that contribute to the success of our consultants. Watch the previous episode here.